Supplier Quality Engineer

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture.

Purpose of the Position

The position is responsible for cross-functional program management which includes qualifying new suppliers, resolving issues with current supply base, developing existing suppliers to reduce cost and increase capacity, and auditing suppliers to ensure process conformance to Thorlabs’ requirements. Although the location of the position is in Newton, NJ, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations. 

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Team with Purchasing and Engineering to select suppliers, to evaluate their capability, to monitor their performance.
• Perform supplier assessments at supplier sites to ensure conformance to manufacturing plans and compliance with regulatory and Thorlabs reputation requirements. 
• Ensure product quality from suppliers and contract manufacturers meets company product quality specifications and objectives.
• Manage the supplier scorecard program to improve cost, quality and delivery of supplied materials.
• Communicate scores to the key suppliers or partners on a quarterly basis. 
• Maintain quality and capability metrics.  Drive corrective actions to address quality issues to improve supplier performance.
• Maintain communications and coordination with the manufacturing floor and inspection personnel. 
• Assist manufacturing process teams on determining solutions to technical problems in regards to supplier quality.
• Support manufacturing environment by qualifying capabilities of Approved Supplier List for shared intercompany use.
• Participate in new product introduction planning and associated supplied product obsolescence and change activities.  Mitigate the risk of counterfeit parts.

In addition to the essential functions and duties listed above, all positions are also responsible for:

• Meeting company standards pertaining to quantity and quality of work performed on an ongoing basis, performing all work-related tasks in a manner that is in compliance with all Company policies and procedures.
• Adhering to Company policies, procedures, and directives regarding standards of workplace behavior in completing job duties and assignments.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Physical Activities:

This is largely a sedentary role; however, some filing is required. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets and bend or stand, as necessary.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a Sourcing, Logistics, Quality, Engineering or Manufacturing role.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in Supplier Quality Management experience.

• Demonstrated experience in Quality Auditing and knowledge of Quality systems.

Education:

• Bachelors in a sciences related field from an accredited college or university.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong interpersonal written/verbal communication skills.
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office, and other database tools.
• Strong ability to take initiative/ownership
• Flexibility/adaptability in a fast-paced & dynamic environment
• Six Sigma/Lean or ASQ CQA/CQE certification preferred

 Other:

Travel up to 25% of time.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts.  The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer.  Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few..